Watch for early signs of drug use

The war on drugs has received a great deal of attention in the media during the past few weeks and the president has spoken recently to young people in schools. In this column, I have devoted quite a bit of space to some aspects of this epidemic problem in our society and have tried to promote healthier families with strong traditional values and healthy communicating patterns.

I also have discussed ways to develop a healthy self-concept, as low self-esteem is a frequent characteristic of those prone to substance abuse. I also have attempted to help individuals learn to deal more effectively with stress and avoid the use of mind-altering chemicals in dealing with the daily difficulties that many of us face at work, school and home.

Today, I would like to devote some space to the signs that may indicate drug use among teenagers. During the early stages of drug abuse it is typical for teenagers to successfully hide drug use, avoiding detection until the problem is severe. Parents, therefore, take no action until a full blown crisis develops.

Look for these early signs since early intervention is so important.

• Difficulty relating to family or friends. One of the hallmarks in making the transition through adolescence is some difficulty in relationships, so the distinction here is greater than the normal amount of disruption in these relationships.

• Unordinary or unusual problems in controlling temper. Again temper flare-ups can be common during the adolescent years; however, with drug or alcohol involvement these outbursts become greater than normally expected from a typical adolescent.

• Sudden changes or swings in moods. This lack of predictability in mood or attitude will be frequent and becomes more pronounced in a child involved with drugs and alcohol.

• Abrupt downturn in school work and apathy about completing homework or other assignments.

• Unexplained attendance performance. The school may inform you of missed classes or whole days of unexcused absences.

• In an attempt to purchase drugs or alcohol, teenagers may resort to theft – from parents, employers or even friends. Not also an increased tendency toward borrowing money.

• Formation of new peer relationships, often seeking friends among others involved in drug use.

• A greater than normal amount of resistance to rules and limits, especially those that curtail late night or weekend activities.

Along with this, you may note a greater than usual amount of resistance to discipline and resistance toward being accountable for actions and activities.

If you suspect your teenager has a problem with drugs or alcohol, seek professional help and evaluation. Early intervention is one of the least expensive ingredients in successful treatment of this tragic problem, and is a very effective one.

Harold H. LeCrone, Jr., Ph.D. Copyright 1989